Professor McCall Smith continues his 44 Scotland Street series with a new novel that finds his cast of quirky but endearing characters embarking on new directions in their lives. Matthew is coming to terms with his new found wealth and trying to find his own way in life - and love. Pat too is finding her way forward although her university course in art history, to say nothing of one of her fellow students, are strangely unsettling. Domenica is away from Scotland doing anthropological research among pirates in Malacca, her flat temporarily occupied by historical novelist Antonia whom artist Angus is trying to help (and impress). Pushy insufferable Irene finds she has bitten off just a little more than she can chew enrolling precocious Bertie into a Teenage Orchestra, while her mild and overawed husband Stuart finds a touch of steel to help out a troubled friend of the gang. And best character of all, gold-toothed, coffee and beer drinking canine Cyril is off on an adventure of his own, although not one he would choose...
As with the rest of McCall Smith,s prolific fictional output, this novel is pure pleasure. If some of the events or characters are a tad unrealistic at times or the novel comes within a hairsbreadth of becoming twee, it simply doesn,t matter. McCall Smith writes with verve, a light touch, and a delightful ironic humor while musing about some real and serious contemporary issues. This is an enjoyable and life-enhancing read. Now, where,s the next episode from Scotland Street...
